Botswana: techpreneurs develop new farming solution

Two entrepreneurs from Botswana's technology centre, the Botswana Innovation Hub (BIH) have developed a software solution for livestock farmers.

Thuto Gaotingwe and Tebogo Dichabeng, working under the banner Modisar, developed precision livestock farming (PLF) software. The software regularly updates records and helps farmers to maintain accurate information and continuous monitoring of their livestock.

Modisar Net Pty Ltd is an incubatee of First Steps Venture Center (FSVC), a technology entrepreneurship development programme within BIH, company set to revolutionise the technology sector in that country.

FSVC was established by government to support entrepreneurship and innovation through technology transfer and identifies, develops and nurtures viable technology oriented start-up businesses with potential to grow locally and into international markets.

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Gaotingwe said the application was designed to stimulate development of the livestock industry in Botswana and cultivate interest in livestock farming among younger generations by associating modern technologies with the nation's passion for farming.

"Modisar aims to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the livestock sector, a major contributor to the Gross Domestic Product in Botswana."

Government has also applauded the development: "The initiative is in line with our objective and that we are committing ourselves in supporting it," said Baitshepi Babusi-Hill

Meanwhile Modisar recently won the Orange Social Venture Prize Award 2014 out of the 452 submitted projects from all over Africa, with twenty originating from Botswana.